★★★★★ – “Another wonderful effort from Pixar.”

The friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish begins a search for her long-lost parents, and everyone learns a few things about the real meaning of family along the way.

It’s been 13 long years since we’ve visited the colourful world under the sea, wonderfully created by the Pixar Animation team, yet it feels like we never left. The story picks up 6 months after the events in Finding Nemo (2003), and takes us on a whole new journey with our favourite characters; Marlin, Nemo and of course, Dory. After the first film being such a hit amongst children and adults alike, it was always going to be a challenge for a sequel to live up to the greatness laid before. It’s been rumoured for years and carefully discussed by the imaginative minds behind the scenes, thus it’s been greatly anticipated by all fans of Pixar. Finding Dory may not tick all the boxes, but it has heart (three of them, in fact) and looks incredible. If you have the chance, 3D is something I highly recommend – which is something I don’t usually do – because it simply works. There’s a lot of vibrancy and depth created in this world that can only be truly witnessed in this format. That said, there’s still a lot to love, regardless.

We’re all pretty familiar with the returning three main characters, so I don’t need to tell you about those. What’s really nice to see, and something Pixar are really skilled at, is the introduction of new characters you can instantly attach yourself to. Most notably, is Hank the Octopus. A very fun and friendly presence that really wouldn’t have been possible to include in the predecessor 13 years ago, due to his impeccable detail. Also, Destiny and Bailey are particularly quirky and humorous additions to the line-up. Idris Elba and Dominic West both make great appearances as Fluke & Rudder and feel a lot like previous characters we’ve seen before, which isn’t a bad thing. They actually deliver some pretty funny jokes during their screen time. Diane Keaton & Eugene Levy also give nice performances as Dory’s parents.

Everyone knows that Pixar strive in their incredible talent with computer generated animation. This movie looks absolutely amazing, just as the first feature did back in 2003, but with added texture and using techniques that just couldn’t have been implemented at such times. Now that computer technology is so advanced, Pixar can really delve into some of their best ideas and create some more unforgettable characters and stories. Some of the only movies I bother watching in 3D are from Pixar, and this is because they know exactly what they’re doing with such a format.

Thomas Newman returns with another atmospheric and heartfelt score that flows peacefully in and out of scenes and touches on the action, comedy and drama throughout. A lot of the material is brand new which is great and as expected from Newman.

Of course, when you go to see a Pixar movie you expect a message that’s weaved into the story and this doesn’t disappoint, by keeping the tradition alive. Its touching moments may not be as dramatic as seen before, but it’s still relatable and pleasing to see. I’m very satisfied with this sequel, as a huge fan of the original (it being my second favourite Pixar feature, following Ratatouille) and I’m sure a lot of other fans will be pleased as well. I can’t wait to watch it again.

My verdict; Finding Dory is another wonderful effort from the hard-working men and women at Pixar Animation Studios, and a worthy sequel to a much loved movie by many. This is one to sea.